Tag Archives: Gallery of Modern Art

The Rudolphinum is one of Prague’s most elegant Neo-Renaissance buildings.

Like the National Theatre, the Rudolphinum was constructed in the late 19th century during the resurgence of Czech national pride and culture.

The Rudolphinum was designed by architects Joseph Zitek and Josef and the building was completed in 1884. It was originally intended as art gallery but in 1946 it became the home of the Czech National Orchestra. From 1918 to 1938 and again, briefly, after World War II, it served as the seat of the Czech Parliament.

Today the Rudophinum is most famous for its amazing Dvorak Hall, a music auditorium which, at the least in the Czech view, boasts the most perfect acoustics in the world. According to the stories the acoustics are so sensitive, that even a coat of paint on the wall of the great hall can alter the sound. The music halls of the Rudolphinum host Prague’s famous Spring and Autumn Music Festivals.

But the Rudophinum has not been completely colonized by the performing arts, part of it remains true to its original purpose and is home to the splendid Gallery of Modern Art. .

Although it was named for the 19th century royal, Crown Prince Rudolph, the 16th century Emperor Rudolph is remembered in the stone lions which crouch at its entrance. To read the Emperor Rudolph’s story, visit www.travelstripe.com A History of Prague, Part 5, The Habsburgh Dynasty